Rainbow and Snag Lakes Loop

Old Station, California

Unique volcanic formations, a historic trail used by emigrants to California in the mid-nineteenth century, a secluded lake in the heart of Lassen’s north country—all this and more lies along the loop that links Butte Lake, Rainbow Lake, and Snag Lake. Most of this trail is described in detail in other hikes in this chapter, so I’ve limited extensive descriptions of those portions of the trail for the sake of brevity. Take your time on the trail, enjoy the spectacular vistas, and savor the blessings of backcountry travel. Should you decide to camp along the route, either at Rainbow Lake or Snag Lake, be sure to abide by the park’s backcountry rules, which are detailed in the introduction to this guide. Highlights: This tour cruises past the Cinder Cone before climbing to secluded Rainbow Lake, then drops by Snag Lake and the Fantastic Lava Beds on its way back to the Cinder Cone and Butte Lake.

Unique volcanic formations, a historic trail used by emigrants to California in the mid-nineteenth century, a secluded lake in the heart of Lassen’s north country—all this and more lies along the loop that links Butte Lake, Rainbow Lake, and Snag Lake. Most of this trail is described in detail in other hikes in this chapter, so I’ve limited extensive descriptions of those portions of the trail for the sake of brevity. Take your time on the trail, enjoy the spectacular vistas, and savor the blessings of backcountry travel. Should you decide to camp along the route, either at Rainbow Lake or Snag Lake, be sure to abide by the park’s backcountry rules, which are detailed in the introduction to this guide. Highlights: This tour cruises past the Cinder Cone before climbing to secluded Rainbow Lake, then drops by Snag Lake and the Fantastic Lava Beds on its way back to the Cinder Cone and Butte Lake.